Beijing Hidden Gems Near Lama Temple You Shouldn't Miss
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- Source：The Silk Road Echo
If you're planning a trip to Beijing and have already added the iconic Lama Temple to your itinerary, here’s a pro tip: don’t just snap your photos and leave. The area around this 18th-century Tibetan Buddhist monastery is packed with underrated spots that most tourists — and even some locals — overlook. As a travel blogger who’s explored every corner of Beijing, I’m sharing my curated list of hidden gems near Lama Temple that deserve your attention.
Why This Area Is More Than Just a Temple Visit
The Lama Temple (Yonghegong) draws over 3 million visitors annually, but few realize that its surrounding hutongs (traditional alleyways) are alive with culture, history, and flavor. Located in the Dongcheng District, this neighborhood offers a rare blend of spiritual calm and urban authenticity.
Top 3 Hidden Gems Within Walking Distance
- Niulanshan Hutong Bookstore: Tucked inside a quiet alley, this community-run space doubles as a reading lounge and cultural hub. Opened in 2021, it hosts weekly calligraphy workshops and tea tastings.
- Guozijian Street Art Lane: Once an academic zone during the Qing Dynasty, it now features stunning murals blending classical Chinese motifs with modern graffiti.
- Ditan Park Morning Market: Just a 10-minute walk north, this local favorite sells handmade dumplings, herbal teas, and vintage trinkets — all at half the price of tourist traps.
Local Eats You Can’t Skip
Forget the overpriced noodle stalls near the temple entrance. Head straight to Xiao Zhang Dumpling House on Kuanjie Street — their lamb & chive dumplings are legendary. Locals line up before 7 a.m., and they sell out by 9:30!
| Eatery | Specialty | Avg. Price (CNY) | Walking Time from Lama Temple |
|---|---|---|---|
| Xiao Zhang Dumpling House | Lamb & Chive Dumplings | 35 | 12 min |
| Coffee Lab Roasters | Pandan Latte + Sour Cream Cake | 48 | 8 min |
| Old Beijing Soy Milk Shop | Fresh Soy Milk + Youtiao | 12 | 6 min |
Pro Tips for the Savvy Traveler
Visit early — between 7:30–8:30 a.m. — to avoid crowds and catch monks chanting morning prayers. Also, wear comfortable shoes; those Beijing hutongs may look flat on maps, but they’re full of uneven bricks and surprise steps!
And here’s a secret: enter the Lama Temple from the east gate. Most tour groups come from the south, so you’ll breeze through security and get better photo ops.